Stand-Up Paddleboarding is Great Fun and a Great Workout

The water temperature is a little chilly out there right now, but it’ll be hot again before we know it. So we want to go ahead and introduce you to the sport that originated in Hawaii but has taken the rest of the world by storm.

A stand-up paddleboard, SUP for short, is a longer, wider surfboard on which you stand up and propel yourself through water with a single-ended paddle. It’s perfect for skimming along flat water as well as catching waves on the shoreline.

The sport reportedly originated in Hawaii about 40 years ago as a way for surfing instructors to manage large groups of students. By standing up on the board, the instructor would have a better view of what the class was doing, as well as have a great view of incoming waves.

While the sport was born from surfing the waves, because you use a paddle to propel yourself, you don’t have to have waves to enjoy the sport. In fact, you can use a SUP in creeks, lakes, rivers and any large body of water.

During your visit to Hilton Head, you may want to give SUP a try. Outside Hilton Head offers lessons (including private lessons), rents equipment and even sells boards and accessories if you decide SUP is the sport for you.

First time SUP-ers, be warned: SUP is a great workout and will likely leave you quite sore and tending to muscles you either haven’t used in a while or didn’t know you had. Because you are constantly trying to maintain your balance, SUP is an effective exercise for building core muscle groups.

When you venture out on a lesson, wear clothing that would be comfortable for a walk on the beach and that you would not mind getting wet. Footwear that will stay on your feet is required (no flip flops). Sun protection is important regardless of the weather or the season. Right now, a wet suit would probably come in handy, but snowbirds might find our winter water temperature refreshing!